In the realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the De La Riva guard has long been a cornerstone of open guard play, particularly in the Gi. However, its application in No-Gi grappling has often been met with skepticism, largely due to the perceived vulnerability to leg locks, specifically the saddle position. Lachlan Giles, a luminary in the grappling world, dispels these concerns in a recent video tutorial. He not only demonstrates how to effectively utilize the De La Riva guard in No-Gi but also how to negate the threat of the saddle position. The essence of Giles’ approach lies in the nuanced manipulation of leg positioning, the strategic use of hooks, and a keen understanding of the opponent’s intentions. This article aims to dissect Giles’ methodology, offering practitioners a comprehensive guide to mastering the De La Riva guard in No-Gi while avoiding the pitfalls of leg entanglements.
Giles emphasizes the importance of a “shallow” De La Riva hook, which targets the opponent’s near leg rather than the far leg. This shallow hook serves as a barrier that prevents the opponent from stepping over your knee line, thereby negating the saddle entry. The hook is accompanied by a backward kick, aimed at lowering the opponent’s hips to the mat.
Once the opponent’s hips are down, Giles transitions to a “deep” De La Riva hook. This is a calculated risk, as it exposes the knee line but also offers a pathway to the Berimbolo—a potent back-taking technique. The key to mitigating this risk lies in the orientation of your knee. By pointing the knee downward, you not only free your leg but also create an entry to the Berimbolo.
Lachlan Giles’ approach to the De La Riva guard in No-Gi is a testament to the evolution of grappling arts. By understanding the mechanics and intentions behind each movement, one can turn perceived vulnerabilities into opportunities for attack. Giles’ methodology offers a robust framework for not just surviving in the De La Riva position, but thriving in it. For those willing to delve into the intricacies of this guard, the rewards are manifold. We invite you to explore more content on our website, where the journey to grappling excellence continues.